U.S. patent application number 15/544098 was filed with the patent office on 2018-09-20 for feature assigned inhalation aid.
The applicant listed for this patent is KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.. Invention is credited to JOHN NIGEL PRITCHARD, DIRK ERNEST VON HOLLEN.
Application Number | 20180264207 15/544098 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52354888 |
Filed Date | 2018-09-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180264207 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
VON HOLLEN; DIRK ERNEST ; et
al. |
September 20, 2018 |
FEATURE ASSIGNED INHALATION AID
Abstract
The present invention relates to a feedback for inhalation. In
order to further improve feedback and instructions to further
support the correct use of an inhaler, a feedback apparatus (10)
for inhalation is provided that comprises an inhaler interface
(11), a processor (14), a feedback device (16), and a feature
assigner (13). The inhaler interface is configured to temporarily
attach the feedback apparatus to an inhalation apparatus. The
feedback device is configured to provide a feedback to the user to
aid in inhalation with the inhalation apparatus. The feature
assigner is configured to identify a type of a predetermined
feature of the attached inhalation apparatus, and the feedback
device is configured to provide the feedback in dependency of the
identified type of feature to instruct the user to adjust
inhalation maneuver adapted to the attached inhalation apparatus.
In an example, the predetermined feature is a device type of the
inhalation apparatus, and the feature assigner is configured as an
inhalation device type assigner (70) to identify the type of a
currently used inhalation device. In another example, the
predetermined feature is an accessory type of the inhalation
apparatus, and the feature assigner is configured as an accessory
type assigner (72) to identify the type of a currently used
accessory.
Inventors: |
VON HOLLEN; DIRK ERNEST;
(CLARK, NJ) ; PRITCHARD; JOHN NIGEL; (LEICESTER,
GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V. |
EINDHHOVEN |
|
NL |
|
|
Family ID: |
52354888 |
Appl. No.: |
15/544098 |
Filed: |
January 22, 2016 |
PCT Filed: |
January 22, 2016 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2016/051319 |
371 Date: |
July 17, 2017 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 2205/582 20130101;
A61M 2205/581 20130101; A61M 2205/6018 20130101; A61M 2205/3331
20130101; A61M 2202/064 20130101; A61M 2205/52 20130101; A61M
2209/04 20130101; A61M 15/00 20130101; A61M 16/14 20130101; A61M
2209/00 20130101; A61M 15/0021 20140204; A61M 2205/13 20130101;
A61M 2205/3553 20130101; A61M 2205/3592 20130101; A61M 15/0086
20130101; A61M 2205/60 20130101; A61M 2205/3375 20130101; A61M
16/20 20130101; A61M 2205/3334 20130101; A61M 16/06 20130101; A61M
2205/583 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61M 15/00 20060101
A61M015/00; A61M 16/06 20060101 A61M016/06; A61M 16/14 20060101
A61M016/14; A61M 16/20 20060101 A61M016/20 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jan 22, 2015 |
EP |
15152044.2 |
Claims
1. A feedback apparatus for inhalation, comprising: an inhaler
interface; a processor; a feedback device; and a feature assigner;
wherein the inhaler interface is configured to temporarily attach
the feedback apparatus to an inhalation apparatus; wherein the
feedback device is configured to provide a feedback to the user to
aid in inhalation with the inhalation apparatus; wherein the
feature assigner is configured to identify a type of a
predetermined feature of the attached inhalation apparatus; wherein
the feedback device is configured to provide the feedback in
dependency of the identified type of feature to instruct the user
to adjust inhalation maneuver adapted to the attached inhalation
apparatus; and wherein the predetermined feature comprises at least
one of the group of: a device type of the inhalation apparatus; an
accessory type of the inhalation apparatus; and an medication type
of the medication applied with the inhalation apparatus.
2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined
feature is a device type of the inhalation apparatus; and wherein
the feature assigner is configured as an inhalation device type
assigner provided to identify the type of a currently used
inhalation device and to assign the type to a predetermined
category of inhalation devices comprising at least one of the group
of: a metered dose inhaler, a soft mist inhaler, a dry powder
inhaler, a single breath dose nebulizer device, and other types of
inhaler; wherein the feedback is provided in dependency of the
assigned category.
3. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined
feature is an accessory type of the inhalation apparatus; and
wherein the feature assigner is configured as an accessory type
assigner provided to identify the type of a currently used
accessory and to assign the type to a predetermined category of
accessories comprising at least one of the group of: valved holding
chamber, intermixing mouthpiece, nose-covering mask, other type of
accessory, and no accessory; wherein the feedback is provided in
dependency of the assigned accessory.
4. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined
feature is a medication type of the medication applied with the
inhalation apparatus; and wherein the feature assigner is
configured as an medication type assigner provided to identify the
type of a currently used medication and to assign the type to a
predetermined category of medication, comprising at least one of
the group of: rescue medication, and prophylactic medication.
5. Apparatus according to claim 1, also comprising: a dispensing
sensor; wherein the dispensing sensor is configured to detect a
dispensing event of the inhalation apparatus; and wherein the
processor is configured to control the feedback device in
dependency of a detected dispensing event.
6. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the feedback device
provides an acoustic or visual feedback; wherein the feedback
apparatus is configured to provide the feedback as time varying set
of instructions; and wherein the time varying tactile set of
instructions comprise at least a first type of feedback relating to
a first action to be performed by the user, and a second type of
feedback relating to a second action to be performed by the
user.
7. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the feedback device is a
vibration device and the feedback is a tactile feedback; wherein
the feedback apparatus is configured to provide the tactile
feedback as a time varying tactile set of instructions; and wherein
the time varying tactile set of instructions comprises at least a
first type of vibration relating to a first action to be performed
by the user, and a second type of vibration relating to a second
action to be performed by the user.
8. Apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the feedback apparatus
is configured to provide the feedback as continuous instructions
for the duration of the first and/or the second action.
9. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the dispensing sensor is
configured: to detect a flow of a medication aerosol to be inhaled
by a user; and the feedback is provided upon a detected flow;
and/or to be coupled to an outlet of a reservoir with a medication
substance, wherein the dispensing sensor detects a user-activated
release of the medication substance; and the feedback is provided
upon a detected release.
10. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the dispensing sensor
is: i) a sound or acoustic sensor that acoustically detects an
inhalation by the user; and the feedback is provided upon a
detected inhalation; and/or ii) an airflow sensor that detects
airflow through a predefined air-passage, which airflow is caused
by an inhalation by the user; and the feedback is provided upon a
detected airflow.
11. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a patient inhalation
monitoring sensor is provided that monitors a patient's inhalation
maneuver or uptake of medication to provide a secondary input to
the processor in addition to an input from the dispensing
sensor.
12. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a proximity sensor is
provided that detects the proximity to a user's mouth or another
accessory; and wherein the feedback is provided upon a detected
proximity of the user's mouth.
13. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein it is provided a data
storage and/or a data transmitter to store and/or to transmit data
for review of sensor and operation data by a medical professional
or caregiver or patient.
14. An inhaler system, comprising: an inhalation apparatus
comprising a reservoir with a medication substance to be
administered; and a feedback apparatus according to wherein the
feedback apparatus is temporarily attached to the inhalation
apparatus; wherein the feature assigner identifies a type of a
predetermined feature of the attached inhalation apparatus; and the
feedback device provides the feedback in dependency of the
identified type of feature to instruct the user to adjust
inhalation maneuver adapted to the attached inhalation
apparatus.
15. A method for providing instructional feedback during
inhalation, comprising the following steps: a) temporarily
attaching a feedback apparatus to an inhalation apparatus; b)
identifying a type of a predetermined feature of the attached
inhalation apparatus; c) providing a feedback to a user to aid in
inhalation with the inhalation apparatus in dependency of the
identified type of feature to instruct the user to adjust
inhalation maneuver adapted to the attached inhalation apparatus.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a feedback apparatus for
inhalation, to an inhaler system, and to a method for providing
instructional feedback during inhalation.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] For the intake of medication, for example inhalation devices
are provided. The result of a respiratory medication therapy is,
among others, depending on the correct inhalation technique. For
example, WO 2011/083377 A1 describes a respiratory drug delivery
apparatus with a feedback and compliance device to provide feedback
information to a patient regarding the use of the respiratory drug
delivery apparatus. LEDs and a display are provided to give visual
information such as feedback and instructions to a patient.
However, it has been shown that errors in the use of the apparatus
may still occur.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] There may thus be a need to further improve the provision of
feedback and instructions in order to further support the correct
use of an inhaler.
[0004] The object of the present invention is solved by the
subject-matter of the independent claims, wherein further
embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims. It should be
noted that the following described aspects of the invention apply
also for the feedback apparatus for inhalation, the inhaler system
and the method for providing instructional feedback during
inhalation.
[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a
feedback apparatus for inhalation is provided that comprises an
inhaler interface, a processor, a feedback device and a feature
assigner. The inhaler interface is configured to temporarily attach
the feedback apparatus to an inhalation apparatus. The feedback
device is configured to provide a feedback to the user to aid in
inhalation with the inhalation apparatus. The feature assigner is
configured to identify a type of a predetermined feature of the
attached inhalation apparatus. The feedback device is configured to
provide the feedback in dependency of the identified type of
feature to instruct the user to adjust inhalation maneuver adapted
to the attached inhalation apparatus. The predetermined feature
comprises at least one of the group of a device type of the
inhalation apparatus, an accessory type of the inhalation
apparatus, and a medication type of the medication applied with the
inhalation apparatus.
[0006] This provides the effect that feedback, e.g. instructions
how to inhale, is provided that always apply for the particular
situation. The user's comfort is thus improved, since there is no
need to adapt instructions that are applicable for one type of
inhaler to another type of inhaler.
[0007] The feedback apparatus is provided for the use in
combination with an inhaler, e.g. an inhalation apparatus of
different type. The feedback apparatus is thus a component of an
inhalation kit or inhalation arrangement with a plurality of
components.
[0008] The term "to identify" relates to determining or recognizing
a characteristic of the inhalation apparatus. The identification
can be arranged in a number of ways. The inhalation apparatus can
actively provide the information to the feature assigner. The
information can also be provided passively by the inhalation
apparatus. For example, the feature assigner actively detects the
feature or characteristic.
[0009] The identification may be provided by the inhaler interface.
For example, different types of sockets and respective couplings
are provided and the type of mechanical connection used determines
the feature information.
[0010] As another possibility, the identification is provided via a
data transmission, for example wireless communication. In an
example, the data communication is provided with passive circuits,
such as RFID tags.
[0011] The term "predetermined feature" relates to a certain
characteristic of the inhalation apparatus that is used in
combination with the feedback apparatus.
[0012] The term "assigner" relates to a unit or component of the
feedback apparatus that determines the feature and assigns it to
the current situation and adapts the feedback according to the
feature.
[0013] The term "in dependency" relates to providing a feedback
that is suitable for the current situation with respect to the
identified type of the feature that has been determined as the
characterizing feature, and thus prioritized to set and control the
feedback that is provided to the user.
[0014] The term "inhalation maneuver" is well-known in the art and
relates to inhalation and/or breath-holding techniques. Inhalation
technique relates to the strength and length of a patient's
inhalation and breath-holding technique relates to the duration of
breath-holding. Different inhalation apparatus may require
different inhalation maneuver for the efficiency of drug
delivery.
[0015] According to an example, the predetermined feature is a
device type of the inhalation apparatus, and the feature assigner
is configured as an inhalation device type assigner provided to
identify the type of a currently used inhalation device and to
assign the type to a predetermined category of inhalation devices
comprising at least one of the group of: a metered dose inhaler, a
soft mist inhaler, a dry powder inhaler, a single breath dose
nebulizer device, and another type of inhaler or nebulizer. The
feedback is provided in dependency of the assigned category.
[0016] According to an example, the predetermined feature is an
accessory type of the inhalation apparatus, and the feature
assigner is configured as an accessory type assigner provided to
identify the type of a currently used accessory and to assign the
type to a predetermined category of accessories comprising at least
one of the group of: valved holding chamber, intermixing
mouthpiece, nose-covering mask, other types of accessory, and no
accessory. The feedback is provided in dependency of the assigned
accessory.
[0017] According to an example, the predetermined feature is a
medication type of the medication applied with the inhalation
apparatus, and the feature assigner is configured as a medication
type assigner provided to identify the type of a currently used
medication and to assign the type to a predetermined category of
medication.
[0018] The rescue medication may also be referred to as "reliever"
or bronchodilator. For example, rescue medication can be taken on
an as-needed basis by the patient.
[0019] The prophylactic medication may also be referred to as
"preventer", "controller", anti-inflammatory or anti-infective. For
example, the prophylactic medication is supposed to be taken by
patients at regular intervals in order to prevent deterioration in
their condition.
[0020] In an example, if the patient or health-care professional
wants to monitor adherence to treatment, then this primarily
applies to the category of prophylactic medication. The rescue
medication usually has no set pattern. However, over-use or sudden
increase in the use of rescue medication indicates that the patient
is not well controlled. It may thus be provided further an
indication to the user to take their prophylactic medication, e.g.
the preventer, or seek medical attention.
[0021] As an option, the inhalation device type and the accessory
type are identified and assigned, and the feedback is adapted and
provided accordingly. As a further option, a combination of
medication identification and device or accessory type
identification is provided.
[0022] According to an example, the apparatus also comprises a
dispensing sensor that is configured to detect a dispensing event
of the inhalation apparatus. The processor is configured to control
the feedback device in dependency of a detected dispensing
event.
[0023] According to an example, the feedback device provides an
acoustic or visual feedback. The feedback apparatus is configured
to provide the feedback as time varying set of instructions, and
the time varying tactile set of instructions comprise at least a
first type of feedback relating to a first action to be performed
by the user, and a second type of feedback relating to a second
action to be performed by the user.
[0024] According to an example, the feedback device is a vibration
device and the feedback is a tactile feedback. The feedback
apparatus is configured to provide the tactile feedback as a time
varying tactile set of instructions. The time varying tactile set
of instructions comprises at least a first type of vibration
relating to a first action to be performed by the user, and a
second type of vibration relating to a second action to be
performed by the user.
[0025] This provides the effect that the user of an inhalation
device, e.g. an inhaler of any type, is provided with instructions
in a very intuitive manner. Since usually the inhalation device is
arranged near the mouth or nose, the provision of visual signals
may sometimes be difficult to be watched by the user. In this
respect, a tactile feedback is provided in a way that does not
require special attention like a focusing of the eyes in a near
distance, but provides the feedback to the user over the tactile
way, preferably sensed by the hand or fingers holding the
apparatus.
[0026] According to an example, the feedback apparatus is
configured to provide the feedback as continuous instructions for
the duration of the first and the second action.
[0027] In an example, the feedback is a tactile feedback, and the
feedback apparatus is configured to provide the tactile feedback as
continuous instructions for the duration of the first and the
second action.
[0028] In an example, the feedback device comprises a piezo
vibration component.
[0029] In another example, a small electromagnetic motor is
provided, with a vibrating gear mechanism. In another example, the
vibration is caused by an electromagnetic actuator.
[0030] According to an example, the dispensing sensor is configured
to detect a flow of a medication aerosol to be inhaled by a user
and the feedback is provided upon a detected flow.
[0031] According to another example, the dispensing sensor is
configured to be coupled to an outlet of a reservoir with a
medication substance. The dispensing sensor detects a
user-activated release of the medication substance, and the
feedback is provided upon a detected release.
[0032] According to an example, the dispensing sensor is a sound or
acoustic sensor that acoustically detects an inhalation by the
user, and the feedback is provided upon a detected inhalation.
[0033] According to another example, the dispensing sensor is an
airflow sensor that detects airflow through a predefined
air-passage, which airflow is caused by an inhalation by the user.
The feedback is provided upon a detected airflow.
[0034] According to an example, a patient inhalation monitoring
sensor is provided that monitors a patient's inhalation maneuver or
uptake of medication to provide a secondary input to the processor
in addition to an input from the dispensing sensor.
[0035] For example, the patient inhalation monitoring sensor may be
a flow sensor or a pressure differential sensor for monitoring e.g.
airflow movement or pressure to determine a patient's inhalation
maneuver or uptake of medication.
[0036] As is well-known, the term "uptake of medication" relates to
the quantity of the medication that is taken by the patient.
[0037] This may provide the effect that it can be determined
whether the patient's inhalation maneuver is properly done.
According to an example, a proximity sensor is provided that
detects the proximity to a user's mouth or another accessory, and
the feedback is provided upon a detected proximity of the user's
mouth.
[0038] According to an example, a data storage and/or a data
transmitter is provided to store and/or to transmit data for review
of sensor and operation data by a medical professional or caregiver
or patient.
[0039] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an
inhaler system is provided that comprises an inhalation apparatus
with a reservoir with a medication substance to be administered.
Further, a feedback apparatus is provided according to one of the
above-mentioned examples. The feedback apparatus is temporarily
attached to the inhalation apparatus. The feature assigner is
configured to identify a type of a predetermined feature of the
attached inhalation apparatus; and the feedback device is
configured to provide the feedback in dependency of the identified
type of feature to instruct the user to adjust inhalation maneuver
adapted to the attached inhalation apparatus.
[0040] In an example, the dispensing sensor is configured to detect
a dispensing event of the medication substance of the reservoir and
the feedback is provided via a handhold (grip) portion arranged for
holding the inhalation apparatus during use.
[0041] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a
method for providing instructional feedback during inhalation is
provided, comprising the following steps: [0042] a) temporarily
attaching feedback apparatus to an inhalation apparatus; and [0043]
b) identifying a type of a predetermined feature of the attached
inhalation apparatus; [0044] c) providing a feedback to a user to
aid in inhalation with the inhalation apparatus in dependency of
the identified type of feature to instruct the user to adjust
inhalation maneuver adapted to the attached inhalation
apparatus.
[0045] According to the present invention, the feedback apparatus
senses the type of the inhalation apparatus, or the presence of any
accessory to provide respectively matching inhalation instructions.
The feedback apparatus thus detects the particular situation and
adapts the instructions to the user accordingly. Hence, the user is
always provided with optimized guidance for inhaling.
[0046] These and other aspects of the present invention will become
apparent from and be elucidated with reference to the embodiments
described hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0047] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described in
the following with reference to the following drawings:
[0048] FIG. 1 shows a first example of a feedback apparatus in a
schematic setup;
[0049] FIG. 2a shows a schematic setup of an example with an
inhalation device type assigner;
[0050] FIG. 2b shows a schematic setup of an example with an
accessory type assigner;
[0051] FIG. 3 shows a schematic setup of an example of the feedback
apparatus of FIG. 1 in relation with an inhaler of a first
type;
[0052] FIG. 4 shows a further example of the feedback apparatus in
combination with an inhaler and a valved holding chamber or
spacer;
[0053] FIG. 5 shows a still further example of the feedback
apparatus in combination with a dry powder inhaler capsule
type;
[0054] FIG. 6 shows another example of the feedback apparatus in
combination with a liquid inhaler type;
[0055] FIG. 7 shows a further example of the feedback apparatus in
a schematic setup;
[0056] FIG. 8 shows a further example of the feedback apparatus in
a schematic setup;
[0057] FIG. 9 shows a further example of the feedback apparatus in
a schematic setup;
[0058] FIG. 10 shows a further example of the further feedback
apparatus in combination with an inhaler forming an inhaler system;
and
[0059] FIG. 11 shows basic steps of an example for a method for
providing instructions feedback during inhalation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0060] FIG. 1 shows a feedback apparatus 10 for inhalation. The
feedback apparatus 10 comprises an inhaler interface 11, a
processor 14, a feedback device 16, and a feature assigner 13. The
inhaler interface 11 is configured to temporarily attach the
feedback apparatus to an inhalation apparatus (indicated with
dotted lines 15). The feedback device 16 is configured to provide a
feedback (indicated with different examples with reference numeral
"20" and an index) to the user to aid in inhalation with the
inhalation apparatus. The feature assigner 13 is configured to
identify a type of a predetermined feature of the attached
inhalation apparatus. The identification of the type of the
predetermined feature is indicated with a dotted arrow 17. The
feedback device is configured to provide the feedback in dependency
of the identified type of feature to instruct the user to adjust
inhalation maneuver adapted to the attached inhalation
apparatus.
[0061] The feedback is provided to the user in various ways. For
illustration, in FIG. 1 the feedback is indicated with wave symbols
20a indicating an example, where the feedback is provided as a
tactile feedback. In another example, the feedback is provided as
audible signals, indicated with acoustic waves 20b, or as visible
signal, indicated with a light signal 20c (see also below).
[0062] As shown in FIG. 2a, in one example, the predetermined
feature is a device type of the inhalation apparatus, and the
feature assigner 13 is configured as an inhalation device type
assigner 70 provided to identify the type of a currently used
inhalation device (indicated with dotted lines 19) and to assign
the type to a predetermined category of inhalation devices (see
below). The feedback device 16 is configured to provide the
feedback in dependency of the identified type of inhalation
device.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 2b, in another example, the predetermined
feature is an accessory type of the inhalation apparatus, and the
feature assigner is configured as an accessory type assigner 72
provided to identify the type of a currently used accessory
(indicated with dotted lines 21) and to assign the type to a
predetermined category of accessories (see below). The feedback
device 16 is configured to provide the feedback in dependency of
the identified type of accessory.
[0064] in another example, not further shown, the feature assigner
13 is configured as a combination of the inhalation device type
assigner 70 and the accessory type assigner 72. In other words, the
feature assigner 13 is configured to identify the type of a
currently used inhalation device and to assign the type to a
predetermined category of inhalation devices, as well as to
identify the type of a currently used accessory and to assign the
type to a predetermined category of accessories. The feedback
device 16 is configured to provide the feedback in dependency of
the identified type of inhalation device and the identified type of
accessory.
[0065] In an example, shown also in FIG. 9, a dispensing sensor 12
is provided. The dispensing sensor 12 is configured to detect a
dispensing event of an inhalation device, which detecting of a
dispensing event is indicated with a dotted arrow 18. The processor
14 is configured to also control the feedback device 16 in
dependency of a detected dispensing event (see below).
[0066] As indicated above, in an example, the feedback device
provides an acoustic or visual feedback. The feedback apparatus is
configured to provide the feedback as time varying set of
instructions; and the time varying tactile set of instructions
comprise at least a first type of feedback relating to a first
action to be performed by the user, and a second type of feedback
relating to a second action to be performed by the user.
[0067] In an example, the feedback is a tactile feedback, indicated
with vibration wave symbols 20a, and thus the feedback device 16 is
a vibration device. The feedback apparatus is configured to provide
the (tactile or other) feedback as a time varying tactile set of
instructions. The time varying tactile instructions comprise at
least a first type of vibration relating to a first action to be
performed by the user, and a second type of vibration relating to a
second action to be performed by the user.
[0068] In an example, a tactile coaching feedback is provided. In
addition, optical feedback can be provided, such as with LEDs or
the like. The inhalation device can be a manually hold inhaler,
such as a pressure metered dose inhaler (PMDI) or a dry powder
inhaler (DPI). The inhalation device can also be a mechanically
activated inhaler, such as a soft mist nebulizer inhaler.
[0069] The metered dose inhaler relates to inhalers using a
propeller gas for the outflow of a spray, i.e. an atomized spray.
The soft mist inhaler relates to inhalers using a dose of atomized
liquid to be mixed with a flow of air caused by inhaling. The soft
mist inhaler may be provided according to the so-called
Respimat.RTM. technology.
[0070] The tactile set of instructions is also referred to as
tactile instructions. The first action may relate to an inhaling,
i.e. intake of breath or breathing-in, prior or post to the start
of the medication dispensing and the second action may relate to a
breath-holding, i.e. not breathing out again for a determined
period of time.
[0071] The first type of vibration can be provided as gentle and
pulsations repeated in a constant pattern for the (target-)
duration of the first action that is initiated based on a sequence
of dispensing events.
[0072] The second type of vibration can be provided as a differing
pulsation for the (target-)duration of the second action, e.g. with
a faster or slower repetition rate, or as a rhythm-like pulsations,
e.g. two shorter pulses followed by a break, before being
repeated.
[0073] As an option, a further, i.e. third type of vibration is
provided relating to a third action, e.g. to indicate that the
inhalation procedure is finished, or to indicate that a further
inhalation circle should be started, i.e. a dispensing should
(again) take place.
[0074] As a further option, another type of vibration is provided
to indicate that an inhalation procedure can start.
[0075] According to an example, the feedback apparatus 10, i.e. the
feedback device 16 is configured to provide the feedback, e.g.
tactile, visual or audible feedback, as continuous instructions for
the duration of the respective first and second (or more)
action.
[0076] The feedback device 16 comprises a piezo vibration component
in one example (not further shown in detail), or an electromagnetic
actuator or drive in another example (also not shown in
detail).
[0077] Turning to FIGS. 3 to 6, examples of different inhaler types
are described in relation with the feedback apparatus 10.
[0078] According to an example, it is a concept to provide an
inhaler interface 11 that is configured to temporarily attach the
feedback apparatus to an inhalation apparatus, which may be of
different type (see below). As an example, the inhaler interface 11
is provided as a receiving opening for attaching an outlet opening
of a metered dose inhaler, or a soft mist inhaler, or a dry powder
inhaler, or a nebulizer as mentioned above.
[0079] In an example, the inhaler interface 11 is provided as a
receiving opening for attaching an outlet opening of a metered dose
inhaler, or a soft mist inhaler, or a dry powder inhaler, or a
nebulizer. In case of a dry powder capsule type, for example as
shown in FIG. 5, the inhaler interface 11 is provided as an
attachment surface for attaching to a grip-portion, or interlocking
on a feature of the dry powder capsule type. In another example,
the feedback apparatus 10 comprises a handle or grip portion for
holding the inhalation device during use.
[0080] In an example, the feedback apparatus 10 is provided as an
add-on for upgrading inhalation devices of at least one of the
group of: metered dose inhaler, soft mist inhaler, dry powder
inhaler, and nebulizer.
[0081] For example, FIG. 3 shows the feedback apparatus 10 in
combination with a manually hold inhaler 24, such as a pressurized
metered dose inhaler, or a dry powder inhaler.
[0082] FIG. 4 shows the feedback apparatus 10 in combination with
the inhaler 24 and with a valved holding chamber 26, or spacer,
having a mouthpiece 28 at the other end.
[0083] FIG. 5 shows the feedback apparatus 10 with a dry powder
inhaler capsule type inhaler 28, also having a mouthpiece 30 for
the inhalation by a patient. As an option, a removable cap 32 for
protecting the mouthpiece 30 is shown. Further, an activation
button 31 is schematically indicated.
[0084] FIG. 6 shows the feedback apparatus 10 in combination with a
liquid inhaler type 34, for example a Respimat.RTM. inhaler. As an
option, a removable protection cap 36 is shown to cover a
mouthpiece 38. Still further, an activation button 40 is
indicated.
[0085] With respect to the examples shown in FIGS. 3 to 6, the
feedback apparatus 10 is provided as an add-on to an inhaler of
different types. As a general concept for these embodiments, the
feedback apparatus 10 provides the feedback in dependency of the
identified type of feature, which feature is identified by the
feature assigner as a type of a predetermined feature of the
attached inhalation apparatus.
[0086] In an example, the feedback is provided as time varying
tactile set of instructions for the correct use of the inhaler.
[0087] According to an example, the dispensing sensor 12 is
configured to detect a flow of a medication aerosol to be inhaled
by a user through the inhaler. The feedback is provided upon a
detected flow.
[0088] The dispensing sensor 12 provides a signal when the aerosol
leaves an inhalation device, according to an example. The flow of
the medication can be detected by a pressure differential sensor,
or by acoustic monitoring.
[0089] FIG. 8 shows an example, where the dispensing sensor 12 is a
sound or acoustic sensor 42 that acoustically detects an inhalation
by the user and the feedback is provided upon a detected
inhalation. In an example, the sound or acoustic sensor is an MEMS
microphone that is configured to detect a breathing-in of a
patient.
[0090] FIG. 7 shows a further example of the feedback apparatus 10.
A patient inhalation monitoring sensor 50 is provided that monitors
a patient's inhalation maneuver or uptake of medication to provide
a secondary input to the processor in addition to an input from the
dispensing sensor 12. A dotted arrow 52 indicates the monitoring
function of the monitoring sensor 50. It is noted that the inhaler
is not further shown in FIG. 7, but is provided in combination with
the feedback apparatus 10.
[0091] A further option is shown in FIG. 7 in form of a data
storage 54 to store data for review of sensor data and operation
data. As a still further option, a data transmitter is provided,
indicated with data transfer arrow 56, to transmit data for further
allowing a review of the sensor and operation data by a medical
professional or caregiver or patient. For example, data can be
transmitted to an external data storage or workstation 58.
[0092] For example, the data storage is provided as an intermediate
storage in the apparatus that is read after or during use. The data
transmitter can be provided as an interface for data communication
with another device during use of the feedback apparatus 10. An
input interface 60 may be provided to allow an adjustment of the
instructions in form of the feedback by the user in accordance with
a diagnosis, therapy or treatment plan (medication plan).
[0093] It is noted that the data storage 54, the data transmitter
56 or the interface 60 are provided as options that can be provided
independently of each other, or in different combinations, or
combined together.
[0094] As a further example, shown as an option in FIG. 8, the
dispensing sensor 12 is provided as an airflow sensor 44 that
detects airflow through a predefined air passage, such as a
mouthpiece 46 of an inhaler 48 schematically indicated, and the
airflow is caused by an inhalation by the user and the feedback is
provided upon a detected airflow.
[0095] The airflow sensor in one example uses pressure differential
or thermal or ultrasonic flow sensor technology. In another
example, the airflow sensor is a propeller-like arrangement
provided in the air-passage. The inhalation by the user provides
that the propeller-like arrangement starts to move indicating the
inhalation process. Airflow movement can also be detected directly
via a flow sensor or via indirect means, such as the vibration of
the capsule in a dry powder inhaler.
[0096] It is noted that the dispensing sensor 12 can be a sound or
acoustic sensor or an airflow sensor, or can be provided as a
combination of different types of sensors.
[0097] In a further example, the dispensing sensor 12 is configured
to be coupled to an outlet of a reservoir with a medication
substance. The dispensing sensor detects a user-activated release
of the medication substance, for example when the user activates an
activation button, such as the button 31 of FIG. 5, or the button
40 of FIG. 6. The feedback is provided upon a detected release of
e.g. the medication.
[0098] In an example, the dispensing sensor can be coupled to an
activation interface for triggering the release of the medication
substance. In one example, the apparatus is provided for a passive
monitoring without interference with the actual drug delivery
device. In another example, the apparatus is provided for an active
feedback apparatus that besides monitoring is also provided to
actively deliver medication.
[0099] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of an example of the
feedback apparatus 10 shown in combination with a soft mist
nebulizer inhaler 62, for example a Respimat.RTM. inhaler. The soft
mist nebulizer inhaler is shown with its outline or shape. For
example, the feedback apparatus 10 is provided as a ring-shaped
structure with one open side to insert the inhaler 62 and to attach
the feedback apparatus 10 temporarily to the inhaler 62. The
inhaler 62 may be provided with a protection cap 64 of a mouthpiece
66 in order to protect the latter when not in use.
[0100] The feedback apparatus 10 is provided with a proximity
sensor 68 that is provided to detect the proximity to a user's
mouth or another accessory and the feedback is provided upon a
detected proximity to the user's mouth or other accessory. It is
noted that the proximity sensor 68 is an option that is also
provided for the other examples shown in the figures and mentioned
in the description.
[0101] In an example, the proximity sensor is a touch sensor
arranged in the vicinity of a mouthpiece such that the user touches
the proximity sensor 68 when bringing the inhalation device into
contact with the mouth.
[0102] The proximity sensor can also be provided as a contactless
or non-contact sensor (as indicated in FIG. 10).
[0103] In an example, the feedback, e.g. a tactile feedback, is
provided in a reduced or dampened manner when it is detected that
an inhaler is in contact with the mouth region. When the inhaler is
out of the mouth, the feedback is provided to its full extent.
[0104] Feedback can be obtained based on the change in amplitude of
vibration frequency when placed in the mouth with or without an
accessory such as a valved holding chamber that is used with a
pressurized metered dose inhaler.
[0105] As indicated above, the feedback apparatus 10 may be
provided in combination with different types of inhalers. For
example, the ring-shaped structure is provided in such a manner
that typically used inhalers can be inserted or attached to this
region of the feedback apparatus 10 due to the nature of the
inhaler usually having a mouthpiece.
[0106] As mentioned above, in a further option, also shown in FIG.
10 as an option, the predetermined feature is a device type of the
inhalation apparatus, and the feature assigner is configured as the
inhalation device type assigner 70 provided to identify the type of
a currently used inhalation device. The inhalation device type
assigner is configured to assign the type to a predetermined
category of inhalation devices comprising at least one of the group
of: a metered dose inhaler, a soft mist inhaler (as shown in FIG.
10 as one example), a dry powder inhaler, a single breath dose
nebulizer device, and other types of inhaler. The feedback is
provided in dependency of the assigned category.
[0107] Depending on the category, different typical breathing and
action schemes can be identified and respective feedback schemes
are predetermined and stored on the apparatus to be triggered upon
identification of the currently used type of inhalation device.
[0108] The inhalation device type assigner is also referred to as
inhalation device type identifier.
[0109] In an example, the feedback comprises a first type of
feedback that relates to inhaling and a second type of feedback
that relates to breath-holding. The duration, number and order of
the different types of feedback are adapted to the detected
assigned category due to the different preferred ways to use the
different inhalers.
[0110] As mentioned above, in another example, turning back to FIG.
4, as an option, the predetermined feature is an accessory type of
the inhalation apparatus and the accessory type assigner 72 is
provided to identify the type of currently used accessory and to
assign the type to a predetermined category of accessories
comprising at least one of the group of: valved holding chamber (as
shown in the example of FIG. 4), intermixing mouthpiece,
nose-covering mask, other type of accessory, and also the category
of no accessory. The feedback is provided in dependency of the
assigned accessory.
[0111] As indicated, in an example, the valved holding chamber is
used as an accessory for a metered dose inhaler. In another
example, the intermixing mouthpiece is used as an accessory for a
soft mist inhaler. In a further example, the nose-covering or
nose-face covering mask is used as an accessory for a nebulizer. In
a further example, no accessory is currently used, such as with a
dry powder inhaler, or with a metered dose inhaler.
[0112] In a further example, the duration, number and order of the
different types of feedback are also adapted to the detected
accessory.
[0113] In an example, the feedback is adapted and provided in
dependency of the accessory. In another example, the feedback is
adapted and provided according to the inhalation device type. In a
further example, both categories, i.e. the inhalation device type
and the accessory type, are considered and the feedback is adapted
accordingly.
[0114] As a further example, indicted in FIG. 10, an inhaler system
80 is provided. The inhaler system 80 comprises an inhalation
apparatus 82, for example a soft mist inhaler, and the inhalation
device comprises a reservoir with a medication substance to be
administered. Further, the feedback apparatus 10 is provided
according to one of the above-described examples. The feedback
apparatus is temporarily attached to the inhalation apparatus. The
feature assigner identifies a type of a predetermined feature of
the attached inhalation apparatus, and the feedback device provides
the feedback in dependency of the identified type of feature to
instruct the user to adjust inhalation maneuver adapted to the
attached inhalation apparatus.
[0115] In an example (not further shown), the dispensing sensor is
configured to detect a dispensing event of the medication substance
of the reservoir and the feedback is provided via a handhold (grip)
portion arranged for holding the inhalation device during use. For
example, the feedback apparatus 10 in FIG. 10 itself acts as the
handhold or grip portion.
[0116] In addition to the example shown in FIG. 10, also other
inhaler system types are provided, namely as inhalation systems
comprising the feedback apparatus 10 and one of the inhalation
device types shown in FIGS. 3 to 6, for example.
[0117] The inhaler system 80 is also referred to as inhalation
system or respiratory therapy system.
[0118] In an example, an inhalation effort by the patient is
detected by an inhalation sensor.
[0119] FIG. 11 shows an example of a method 100 for providing
instructional feedback during inhalation. The method 100 comprises
the following steps: In a first step 102, also referred to as step
a), a feedback apparatus is temporarily attached to an inhalation
apparatus. In a second step 104, also referred to as step b), a
type of a predetermined feature of the attached inhalation
apparatus is identified. In a third step 106, also referred to as
step c), feedback is provided to the user to aid in inhalation with
the inhalation apparatus in dependency of the identified type of
feature to instruct the user to adjust inhalation maneuver adapted
to the attached inhalation apparatus.
[0120] It has to be noted that embodiments of the invention are
described with reference to different subject matters. In
particular, some embodiments are described with reference to method
type claims whereas other embodiments are described with reference
to the device type claims. However, a person skilled in the art
will gather from the above and the following description that,
unless otherwise notified, in addition to any combination of
features belonging to one type of subject matter also any
combination between features relating to different subject matters
is considered to be disclosed with this application. However, all
features can be combined providing synergetic effects that are more
than the simple summation of the features.
[0121] While the invention has been illustrated and described in
detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration
and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary and
not restrictive. The invention is not limited to the disclosed
embodiments. Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be
understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing a
claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure,
and the dependent claims.
[0122] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other
elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not
exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfill
the functions of several items re-cited in the claims. The mere
fact that certain measures are re-cited in mutually different
dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these
measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the
claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.
* * * * *